OLDS – The Town of Olds is already into its second generation of electric ice resurfacers.
It’s replacing its current electric ice resurfacer by trading it in for a new one, expected to arrive this summer, according to communications co-ordinator Sarah Pillar.
The town announced acquisition of the new resurfacer in a news release issued April 2, saying the purchase was enabled through an Alberta Electric Vehicles for Municipalities Program grant from the provincial government, administered by the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (MCCAC).
The MCCAC is a partnership of Alberta Municipalities, Rural Municipalities of Alberta, and the provincial government.
"Our current one is 2013. (A) typical replacement program is 10 years for an ice resurfacer," parks and recreation facilities manager Ken Krueger wrote in an email.
"We applied for the grant back in 2022, knowing that we would be replacing the current one in the next few years. Once the grant was approved, we added to the capital program for purchase in 2024."
“The electric ice resurfacer represents a step towards a healthier, greener future for the community and will assist the Town of Olds (in) providing consistent quality indoor ice at the Sportsplex for the community,” the news release said.
"The new electric ice resurfacer is a valuable investment for the Town of Olds. We are thankful to be awarded provincial funding for this purchase,” Town of Olds Mayor Judy Dahl was quoted as saying in the release.
“This equipment will be a welcome addition to our fleet and ensure top-notch recreation experiences for individuals, families, and sports teams.”
The release also included a quote attributed to Rebecca Schulz, the province’s minister of Environment and Protected Areas.
"As a parent, I know how important arenas are to communities, and how much energy they can use. Energy efficiency upgrades can carry a high price tag, which is why we’re pleased to help fund this project."
